A Hoops Journey

Episode 118 - Michael Hamilton

Our guy Hammy! We get to sit down with the creative force behind Hopz Productions / Transition Game Inc. and Crunch Time Film Productions, Michael Hamilton. Michael is a guy from northern Alberta who made his way to the Lower Mainland and has had an impact on our local hoop scene for decades.
An accomplished filmmaker, Mitch and Michael go back in time to discuss his love for the game, competing in a small community plus the move to Edmonton for some College Hoops. Eventually, Michael found himself in the Vancouver area and has been thriving ever since!
Michael has joined an award-winning team to direct a highly anticipated film project on the iconic civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. called I Am MLK Jr. Prior to that, he directed a doc series called Facing Schwarzenegger, about Arnold Schwarzenegger. In conjunction with Entertainment One Michael produced and directed the amazing story of Nash, a theatrical documentary, TV, and digital special on NBA All-Star Steve Nash.
Additionally, he has produced and directed branded content for Peter Guber’s Mandalay Sports Media, Vice, while developing projects for Lebron James distribution company Uninterrupted, and Steve Nash’s production company Meathawk.
Mitch and Hammy have a storied pass which provides lots of laughs and moments down memory lane! Truly thank him for being with us and know you will enjoy episode 118! Tap in!
#AHoopsJourney
Reach out to us at ahoopsjourney@gmail.com
Michael HamiltonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-hamilton-49055b3b
Aaron Mitchell - HostInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_a_mitch/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahoopsjourney/Website: https://www.ahoopsjourney.com/
Sponsors: PGC Basketballhttps://pgcbasketball.com/
Parkside Breweryhttps://www.theparksidebrewery.com/
ATO Basketball Merchantshttps://www.atobball.com/

Episode 117 - Syla Swords

Episode 117 takes us all the way to New York with the 11th-ranked player in the United States, a Michigan basketball commit, and one of the best up-and-coming Canadian players we have in our country; Syla Swords!
Syla is getting ready for her senior season with @luhigirlsbasketball as her squad is the pre-season #1 team in the entire United States! Syla is beyond her years in maturity and understanding who she is, she has lofty goals, a desire to improve and a unique family dynamic to lean on in hard times.
Mitch and Syla discuss the tough decision to leave Ontario and move to the States, why Michigan was the place for her, her crazy double Bronze medal in July, and what her long-term goals are with Team Canada! We thank Syla for being with us and wish her all the best this season! Any young hooper out there needs to check this episode out, you will hear and learn what it takes to be a next-level player! Tap in!
#AHoopsJourney
Reach out to us at ahoopsjourney@gmail.com
Syla Swordshttps://www.basketball.ca/athlete/syla-swordshttps://www.espn.com/high-school/girls-basketball/recruiting/player/_/id/254720
Alex Adamshttps://twitter.com/AlexAdamsBTPhttps://www.raptorsrepublic.com/2023/08/25/canada-rout-france-win-2023-fiba-wc-opener/
Aaron Mitchell - HostInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_a_mitch/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahoopsjourney/Website: https://www.ahoopsjourney.com/
Sponsors: PGC Basketballhttps://pgcbasketball.com/
Parkside Breweryhttps://www.theparksidebrewery.com/
ATO Basketball Merchantshttps://www.atobball.com/

Episode 116 - 23 Years in the Making

Special Episode!
Rest in Peace to Greg Francis who passed away on April 2nd, 2023. Greg was an integral part of the 2000 team and a great person and teammate
From 2000 to now! Well, WE DID IT! @canadabasketball has qualified on the men’s side for the first time since the 2000 Olympics in Australia! As a show we thought it would be fun to revisit those memories with a few of the ones that did it- Jay Triano, Andrew Mavis, Eric Hinrichsen, Todd MacCulloch, Shawn Swords, Jonny Lee and Peter Guarasci!
The fellas go back in time and think about their own experience combined with the emotions they felt when realizing Canada had made the Olympics for 2024! Some great insight, thoughts and Canadian pride in this episode plus a guest appearance from a young up-and-coming journalist and hoop head Alex Adams! Alex was on the sidelines in Jakarta reporting on the FIBAWC games and bringing great insight through his podcasts with Raptors Republic.
It goes without saying that if you love basketball in our Country you need to check this one out! Congratulations to every single player, coach, manager, staff, media, parent, etc who had some part in this journey! 23 years gone in a flash and there’s only more to come! Episode 116 is live!!!!!
#AHoopsJourney
Reach out to us at ahoopsjourney@gmail.com
Jay Triano, Andrew Mavis, Eric Hinrichsen, Todd MacCulloch, Shawn Swords, Jonny Lee and Peter Guarasci
Alex Adamshttps://twitter.com/AlexAdamsBTPhttps://www.raptorsrepublic.com/2023/08/25/canada-rout-france-win-2023-fiba-wc-opener/
Aaron Mitchell - HostInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_a_mitch/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahoopsjourney/Website: https://www.ahoopsjourney.com/
Sponsors: PGC Basketballhttps://pgcbasketball.com/
Parkside Breweryhttps://www.theparksidebrewery.com/
ATO Basketball Merchantshttps://www.atobball.com/

Episode 115 - James Karnik

Our latest episode was a unique one in terms of talking with a player from BC who hardly played in BC in his younger years. Across the span of this show, there are some original experiences and takeaways for our listeners as James reflects on an early leap to basketball in the United States. After returning from the AAU / Prep system James talks about his next moves as well as the why and how he ended up committing to Division 1 Lehigh University, then transferring to Boston College in the middle of Covid.
James has some great thoughts on the system here in BC, why kids need mentorship and guidance, and how he’s trying to do his best to impact the youth in BC and Canada. As he currently recovers from a knee injury he is anticipating getting back on the court and playing pro overseas to continue what is sure to be a successful career. Whether it’s pro ball or representing the Czech National team you can guarantee hard work and desire on the court, much like this episode! We wish James all the best and know you need to check this one out!
#AHoopsJourney
Reach out to us at ahoopsjourney@gmail.com
Podcast Guest: James Karnikhttps://www.instagram.com/jameskarnikhttps://www.thebandits.ca/roster/james-karnikhttps://bceagles.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/james-karnik/13963
Aaron Mitchell - HostInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_a_mitch/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahoopsjourney/Website: https://www.ahoopsjourney.com/
Sponsors: PGC Basketballhttps://pgcbasketball.com/
Parkside Breweryhttps://www.theparksidebrewery.com/
ATO Basketball Merchantshttps://www.atobball.com/

Episode 114 - Dave Crook

Episode 114 has us sitting down with the Wesmen legend himself; Dave Crook. Coach Crook (And current Athletic Director at the University of Winnipeg) has been around the game a long time and worked to develop many programs across Canada. Dave’s career starts early with a young Michael Grange (Episode 111), all the way to Lethbridge under unique circumstances.
Dave was not only a U Sport coach, he worked with Canada Basketball from 1996-2005 all while creating some great memories and stories that he shared with us. When Dave talks you can hear what those National team years meant to him, the photo in this profile is connected to a story he tells on the episode!
Between enjoy lake life in the summer and getting the Wesmen athletic programs ready, Dave reflects on his life and what’s left for him in his future. We really thank Dave for being with us, if you have come across this man you most likely left with a smile. Episode 114 is a great one, enjoy!
Reach out to us at ahoopsjourney@gmail.com
Podcast Guest: Dave Crookhttps://wesmen.ca/staff-directory/dave-crook/56https://usports.ca/en/news/2018/04/363943933/getting-to-know-dave-crook-winnipeghttps://www.uwinnipeg.ca/foundation/donor-recognition/why-i-give/2021/12/why-i-give-dave-crook.html
Aaron Mitchell - HostInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_a_mitch/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahoopsjourney/Website: https://www.ahoopsjourney.com/
Sponsors: PGC Basketballhttps://pgcbasketball.com/
Parkside Breweryhttps://www.theparksidebrewery.com/
ATO Basketball Merchantshttps://www.atobball.com/

Episode 113 - Jamie McNeilly

Episode 113!! We hope you are all soaking up the last days of summer!
This is one for the ages. Jamie is a young man who has worked hard and now finds himself as an assistant with TCU men's basketball. Jamie’s story goes back to growing up in Toronto and playing lots of hoops, however not realizing what it took to go play Division 1 made for an interesting path.
A wild story about Hurricane Katrina, playing for and working with Buzz Williams, mentoring Jimmy Butler and our former guest Junior Cadougan- this episode really has it all!!
This is one you might have to play twice, it was a pleasure to chat with Jamie and hear his story. As he says at the end of the episode we need to keep sharing and letting people know the path that was built so we thank him for being with us! Episode 113 is a must!
Reach out to us at ahoopsjourney@gmail.com
Podcast Guest: Jamie McNeillyhttps://gofrogs.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/jamie-mcneilly/1018https://www.basketball.ca/coaches/jamie-mcneillyhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-mcneilly-2426609a/https://twitter.com/CoachMcNeilly
Aaron Mitchell - HostInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_a_mitch/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahoopsjourney/Website: https://www.ahoopsjourney.com/
Sponsors: PGC Basketballhttps://pgcbasketball.com/
Parkside Breweryhttps://www.theparksidebrewery.com/
ATO Basketball Merchantshttps://www.atobball.com/

Episode 112 - Emmy Unaegbu

For Ep 112 we sit down with the current @nba Basketball Operations Manager for Europe and the Middle East, Emmy Unaegbu.
From Vancouver to Port Coquitlam, to SFU and beyond Emmy unpacks his life and journey on how he made it to his current destination; Abu Dhabi. Emmy’s story is a great one, a hard-working and consistent basketball player who excelled at many levels and has used those skills to translate to his work and personal life, this episode has lots of “minor details” you might want to hear.
Plenty of great takeaways, reflection on showing up even when you aren’t invited, and how the power of LinkedIn found him a career……it was great to catch up with Emmy and go back in time! Appreciate you family.
Ep 112 is live!
#AHoopsJourney #Canada #CanadaBasketball #JRnba #Basketball
Reach out to us at ahoopsjourney@gmail.com
Podcast Guest: Emmy UnaegbuInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/emunaegbuLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmanuel-c-unaegbu
Aaron Mitchell - HostInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_a_mitch/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahoopsjourney/Website: https://www.ahoopsjourney.com/
Sponsors: PGC Basketballhttps://pgcbasketball.com/
Parkside Breweryhttps://www.theparksidebrewery.com/
ATO Basketball Merchantshttps://www.atobball.com/

Episode 111 - Michael Grange

Michael Grange is a renowned sports columnist, radio personality, and television commentator associated with Rogers Sportsnet. With a vast knowledge of sports and a keen analytical mind, Grange has made significant contributions to the world of sports journalism.
Grange's journey in sports began at an early age, fueled by his passion for athletics. Growing up, he developed a deep appreciation for various sports and became captivated by their intricacies. This love for sports paved the way for his future career as a sports writer.
After completing his education, Grange embarked on his professional journey in the world of sports media with The Globe and Mail. 16 years later he joined Rogers Sportsnet, a leading sports network in Canada, where he gained recognition for his insightful analysis and engaging writing style. Grange's work as a columnist resonated with readers, establishing him as a respected authority in the field.
Over the years, Grange has covered a wide range of sports, including basketball, hockey, baseball, and football. His in-depth knowledge and ability to provide thoughtful commentary on games, players, and industry trends have earned him a loyal following of fans and readers.
Reach out to us at ahoopsjourney@gmail.com
Podcast Guest: Michael GrangeSportsnet: https://www.sportsnet.ca/insiders/michael-grange/Twitter: https://twitter.com/michaelgrangeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-grange-7b27a913
Aaron Mitchell - HostInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_a_mitch/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahoopsjourney/Website: https://www.ahoopsjourney.com/
Sponsors: PGC Basketballhttps://pgcbasketball.com/
Parkside Breweryhttps://www.theparksidebrewery.com/
ATO Basketball Merchantshttps://www.atobball.com/

Episode 110 - Marial Shayok

Know the name? If not then tap in and think of Team Canada, University of Virginia, Iowa State and all the way to the Philadelphia 76ers. Marial has years ahead of him and after a positive season with the Maine Celtics, he looks forward to signing somewhere soon. Marial takes us back to his time growing up in Ottawa being surrounded by four siblings (two who were serious hoopers), and his father who is a former D1 basketball player. In his Grade 12 year, Marial made the decision to move from St. Patrick’s high school to the storied program at Blair Academy in New Jersey, where names like Luol Deng and Charlie Villanueva also attended. From there the decision on which school to attend became a tough one. After committing to Marquette, then head coach Buzz Williams left for Virginia Tech so Marial decided to attend the University of Virginia instead. Some great insight and thoughts about his three years there, but in the end he ultimately decided to transfer for his senior year at Iowa State where he averaged 19 ppg in 2018-19, was an Associate Press Honorable Mention All-American and BIG 12 Tournament MVP. The ups, downs and in-between are all in Episode 110. Marial shows great reflection and understanding of who he is all while staying positive and reflecting on where he’s come. Anyone in the Ottawa region check out the showcase we have shared and support Marial’s push to grow the game! We wish him nothing but the best going forward, Episode 110 is live!Reach out to us at ahoopsjourney@gmail.comPodcast Guests: Marial ShayokWikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marial_ShayokTwitter: https://twitter.com/marialshayokEspn: https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/3138201/marial-shayokAaron Mitchell - HostInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_a_mitch/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahoopsjourney/Website: https://www.ahoopsjourney.com/Sponsors: PGC Basketballhttps://pgcbasketball.com/Parkside Breweryhttps://www.theparksidebrewery.com/ATO Basketball Merchantshttps://www.atobball.com/

Episode 109 - Dani Langford

Dani Langford’s story to the @warriors is amazing. The current manager of player rehabilitation and 2022 NBA Champion goes into deep detail about the importance of relationships and mentors, citing both Alex McKechnie and Rick Celibrini as driving forces to her success.
As a player, Dani won Provincial and National Championships, including TWO undefeated seasons with the SFU Women’s program under the leadership and guidance of her dad - our former guest on Episode 93!
A team-first player and person, Dani quickly tries to scroll by the fact that she was a multiple Can West all-star and CIS tournament MVP winner.
After basketball Dani follows her academic pursuit all the way to Australia and at times thought she may never come back. From there life takes many twists and turns that have now found her in the Bay Area in a fantastic, but busy role and position. At times our listeners may wonder “what it takes” to reach these certain levels and this episode will give you great insight into that………not to mention being a woman in a male dominant industry!
We really appreciate Dani taking the time during her short off-season to be with us. To our local BC listeners come see her and Alex speak at their clinic on August 1st in Langley!
Episode 109 is live! Tap in!
#AHoopsJourney #GoldenStateWarriors #SFUBasketball